Texas 2023 - 88th 4th C.S.

Texas House Bill HB111

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the possession of weapons on public property within 1000 feet of a school in Texas.

Impact

If enacted, HB 111 would significantly alter the current regulations surrounding weapon possession in proximity to schools. It clearly defines zones where firearm possession is banned and increases penalties for violations. The bill reflects a growing concern for safety in schools and presents a clearer standard for law enforcement regarding where individuals are permitted to carry weapons. The impact on state laws would be considerable as it reinforces restrictions aimed at protecting children in educational environments.

Summary

House Bill 111 addresses public safety by prohibiting the possession of weapons on public property within 1000 feet of a school in Texas. This legislation amends the Penal Code to enhance security measures in and around educational institutions. The primary objective of the bill is to create a safer environment for students and staff by restricting access to firearms and other dangerous weapons near schools, thereby reducing the potential for gun-related incidents in these vulnerable settings.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 111 appears to be largely supportive among proponents of gun control and school safety initiatives. Many believe that enhancing restrictions on weapon possession is a vital step toward ensuring the safety and well-being of students. However, there is also a faction of opposition, primarily consisting of gun rights advocates, who argue that such measures infringe on personal liberties and the right to carry firearms, which they believe should not be limited in proximity to schools.

Contention

The main points of contention surrounding HB 111 include debates over the balance between public safety and individual rights. Critics argue that the bill may not effectively deter individuals intent on committing violent acts, as those who disregard laws are less likely to heed additional restrictions. Moreover, there are concerns regarding how the law will be enforced and whether it will disproportionately affect law-abiding citizens. The bill is emblematic of the broader national conversation regarding gun control, where advocates and opponents hold strongly divergent views.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

  • Chapter 46. Weapons
    • Section: 03

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2095

Relating to the prosecution of the offense involving the possession or carrying of certain weapons on the premises or property of certain locations.

TX HB1760

Relating to the prosecution of the offense of possessing a weapon in certain prohibited places associated with schools or postsecondary educational institutions.

TX HB192

Relating to the possession of a weapon in certain locations of a government court.

TX HB2279

Relating to the prosecution of certain offenses involving the carrying of weapons at certain locations.

TX HB1007

Relating to prohibiting weapons in certain facilities or residences providing services to individuals with an intellectual disability or a developmental disability.

TX HB4726

Relating to prohibiting weapons in certain facilities providing services to individuals with mental illness or an intellectual disability and community centers providing community-based mental health or intellectual disability services.

TX HB2960

Relating to the locations in which carrying certain weapons is prohibited and the applicability of a defense to prosecution for an offense relating to carrying a handgun in certain prohibited locations and associated notice requirements.

TX SB354

Relating to the carrying of concealed handguns by handgun license holders on the campus of a school district or open-enrollment charter school.

TX HB4554

Relating to the right of the people to keep and bear arms.

TX SB2348

Relating to required notice prohibiting firearms at certain businesses selling or serving alcoholic beverages and the prohibition on carrying certain weapons on those premises.

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